"Khadam" expands across Asia after Malaysian box office run

Showtimes

News

"Khadam" expands across Asia after Malaysian box office run

Get all the latest updates right on your phone. Join our Telegram channel.

Writer: Heidi Hsia

Remy Ishak and Aghniny Haque in "Khadam"

15 Sep - "Khadam," the Malay-language dramatic horror directed by Shamyl Othman, has become one of Malaysia's biggest homegrown cinema events of the year, and is now carrying that momentum across the region.

Following a commanding theatrical run at home, the film has opened in Cambodia and Singapore, is trending strongly on social platforms ahead of its 8 October release in Hong Kong, and is preparing for its much-anticipated upcoming debut in Indonesia on 16 September.

"Khadam" opened in more than 120 cinemas across Malaysia and Brunei on 11 June 2026 and immediately topped the national box office, grossing RM1.2 million in its opening weekend and emerging as the top-performing title nationwide upon release. Within seven days, the film had built on that start to reach RM2.6 million, and by early July, it had climbed to more than RM5 million at the Malaysian box office, cementing its place as one of the year's standout homegrown hits.

The film's commercial success has been matched by strong critical and industry reception.

Veteran filmmaker Erma Fatima praised the film for striking all the right notes, while respected actress Sofea Jane singled out the strength of its screenplay. Coverage across Malaysia's major entertainment press has repeatedly pointed to the same strengths: a compelling screenplay, powerful performances from an ensemble cast especially a stunning breakout performance from Indonesian superstar Aghniny Haque, immersive sound design, and a rare ability to build dread without leaning on genre cliches.

Set in the 1950s, "Khadam" follows Melor, a mother who - following the death of her own mother, is forced to inherit a "saka," a supernatural entity passed down through generations. As the entity gradually asserts itself over her role as wife and mother, taking the form of an idealised, flawless version of herself, Melor must fight to reclaim her identity and protect her family before she loses herself completely - and before the entity claims a devastating price in return.

"Khadam" is produced by Red Communications and Komet Productions from Malaysia, and brings together a wider network of regional partners spanning several territories: Magma Entertainment and VMS Studios (Indonesia), Sil-Metropole Organisation Ltd. (Hong Kong), Applause Entertainment (India), Golden Screen Cinemas (Malaysia) and Primeworks Studios (Malaysia). The film is distributed in Malaysia by GSC Movies, with rimeworks Studios also serving as marketing partner, and was produced with support from Malaysia's National Film Development Corporation (FINAS).

Cinema Online, 15 September 2026

Check out all the latest movie trailers here.